St. Mary's Academy

09.03.10 - Teacher as Camper ... and Student

Before I left for Diamond Tail, I texted and emailed a few friends to let them know that I would be out of cell and email range for a few days.  I was heading up to the ranch a few days earlier than the students, to “help” Mrs. Ashley with some set up (I say “help” because Martha is so extraordinary that she really had things well under control and I didn’t add much!)

Upon hearing about my whereabouts, most of these good friends wrote back comments like “are you crazy?” or “pulled the short straw?” or even one brief comment that said it all:  “oh dear.”

I am not a camper.  Never have been.  In fact, when I mentioned to some of the seventh grade girls that I had never slept in a tent, they were incredulous.  How could I, an adult, have never had such an experience?  Some of the teachers were equally as stunned with my lack of experience.  I guess growing up in the suburbs of Washington, DC, didn’t expose me to such opportunities. 

I admit to butterflies in anticipation of the trip. I admit I wondered if I had the right equipment, the right clothes.  I worried what if I couldn’t sleep?  What if I heard noises that frightened me? What if I just plain old didn’t like it ,and as such was a terrible, cranky chaperone when the girls arrived?  The “what ifs” were abundant.

And here I am at the end of the week, with Diamond Tail—and my first tent experience—a memory.  And, I am happy to share, it’s a memory I cherish.  I am not so sure that I will be heading to REI to purchase my own tent or calling to book a camp site for my own trip, but  if invited again to go to Diamond Tail or another camping trip, I know I will accept the invitation.

And, what a treat to see our confident, clever seventh grade girls in action!  Whether hiking, sitting around a campfire, touring the buffalo herds or organizing a meal—these girls are involved, fun, tough and enthusiastic.  While we were sitting near the pond, two decided it would be fun to go in the water (many more then followed).  Another group decided it was time to get out the paddle boat. Without any cries for help or worries that they couldn’t do it… these girls turned the boat upright, pushed it into the water and then enjoyed paddling around the pond.  When it was time to build a campfire, a handful were confident enough in their skills to step right up and show how it was done.  And not one complaint was uttered about being on cleanup crew after meals!  It was a joy to be with these young women!

For my experience, it was a time for learning.  I don’t think there is a teacher at St. Mary’s Academy who wouldn’t agree that to be a learner is the best experience for sharpening your skills as a teacher.  I was reminded of those scary feelings that can accompany trying something new while feeling completely out of your element.  I was also reminded of the whoosh of a feeling when you accomplish something new.  And it was the support and positive feelings of the 7th grade girls and their teachers that made sure we all felt a good feeling of accomplishment!

For four days, I was a student.  And, as a result, I know that I am a better teacher.  (Now about the bathroom aspect of camping .... )

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The first full week is complete and we have had a great week!  And, yes, we are looking forward to a three-day weekend.

We enjoyed seeing the Ninth Grade Parents last week for a dinner and program.  There looks like another ninth grade night is on the calendar for next week.  That is an error! 

The Jesuit Colleges are coming next week to meet our High School girls.  The college process is off and running for the seniors!

Lower School Back To School Night was a great success.  So great to see our wonderful, supportive parent community.  Fifth grade parents please remember to mark October 6 for coffee with the Middle School principal, Martha Ashley.

Don’t forget to check the calendar if you are coming to a New Parent Breakfast.  We love seeing you here for breakfast.  Call Jackie Neal in the Advancement Office if you haven’t RSVPd yet!

And, be sure to buy a spot with the Golf Tournament if you want to play.  We have a few spots left.  Give Charlie in the Advancement Office a call.

Have a great long weekend!